Arzu Merali

Arzu Merali heads the research section at the Islamic Human Rights Commission and has co-authored this study with Professor Saied R. Ameli. You can find her on Twitter @arzumerali. ‘Environment of Hate’ is available to buy in paperback or PDF.

In the wake of the publication of a landmark report documenting a rise in anti-Muslim racism in the UK, one of its authors, Arzu Merali, argues for a deeper understanding of the systemic roots of Islamophobia.

In the lead up to this year's edition of the Islamophobia Awards, to be held this Friday, Azru Merali offers some reflections on what the fight against Islamophobia entails today. Whether it is advocacy against imperialist, colonial wars, or activism against anti-terror laws, or studying hate crime and discrimination, the naming and vocalising of the roots of oppression is the only way that beleaguered communities can be made to feel empowered.